News from the Capitol

The Legislative Insider is published during the Legislative Session by the Georgia Dental Association. It contains updates on the activities of GDA's Government Affairs team as well as information about bills relevant to dentists and patient care.

May 21, 2025

Crashing the Biofilm Party: Understanding the Path to Safe Dental Unit Waterlines

Dental unit waterlines (DUWLs) can harbor harmful bacteria if not properly maintained, posing serious health risks to patients, including documented outbreaks. Once overlooked, DUWL safety is now a critical infection control focus, with protocols like shocking, treating, and testing waterlines increasingly mandated, including new continuing education requirements in Georgia.

May 13, 2025

Preparing Patients for the Cost of Dentistry

Many patients delay needed dental care due to concerns about cost and a lack of understanding around dental expenses and insurance benefits. This article highlights key insights from the 2023 Synchrony Dental Lifetime of Care study and offers practical ways dental teams can help patients better prepare for and manage the cost of care.

Apr 22, 2025

Community Water Fluoridation is Still a Good Idea!

Community water fluoridation is a safe, effective, and cost-saving public health measure inspired by natural fluoride levels that significantly reduces dental caries and promotes oral health equity.

Apr 16, 2025

ADA Lobby Day 2025

From March 30 to April 1, 2025, Georgia Dental Association representatives joined dentists nationwide in Washington, D.C. for the ADA Dentist and Student Lobby Day, advocating for key issues such as dental student debt relief, insurance reform, and water fluoridation.

Apr 11, 2025

Advocating for the Future of Dentistry as a D1

As a first-year dental student and future Army dentist, Tate Allen had the unforgettable opportunity to represent the Dental College of Georgia at ADA Lobby Day in Washington, D.C.